Ep 306: Getting IVF-Ready: How to prepare for IVF before treatment begins

 Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, the docs cover everything patients should consider if they plan to start IVF in the next couple of months. They begin with practical but essential advice, especially at the start of a new year, such as re-verification of insurance to ensure the coverage you expect is still in place. They review important lifestyle considerations: diabetes and high blood pressure should be well controlled, weight-loss efforts should begin sooner rather than later if needed, and now is the time to adjust habits or foods that may not support fertility. The doctors discuss the importance of starting supplements early, especially prenatal vitamins, vitamin D, and folic acid, since these nutrients play a critical role even before pregnancy is detected. The team also reviews the value of an up-to-date physical exam and age-appropriate screenings, including mammograms for women over 40. They stress the importance of evaluating the male partner as well, including semen analysis and routine infectious disease testing required by most fertility clinics. Finally, they highlight key pre-IVF testing, such as saline sonograms to assess tubal patency, to ensure patients are ready to begin treatment without delay. Shady Grove Fertility sponsored this podcast.